Blake Walsh

15 Best Things to Do in Hamburg, NY

  • Published 2022/09/26

South of Buffalo, New York, Hamburg stands as a promising village with a living history.

Dotting the streets are historic buildings featuring the architecture and design of known past eras.

In 1874, Hamburg celebrated George M. Pierce as the president in its first incorporation as a village.

Before that, many accounts have told of ethnic dwellers, like the Kahquak Indians, living in the area long before Hamburg’s shift to rural living.

This village also holds the largest county fair in all of the United States: the Erie County Fair.

Likewise, Hamburg guarantees recreation, with local shops right around every corner.

Hamburg is perfect for you if you want a suburban atmosphere that works well with a historical backdrop.

Below are some of the best things to do in Hamburg, New York!

See the Attractions and Rides at the Erie County Fair Fairgrounds

Scenic view of the Erie County Fair Fairgrounds

Mark Bofinger / Shutterstock.com

The Erie County Fairgrounds is a multi-level park and entertainment area at McKinley Parkway.

The Erie County Fair organization emerged in 1819 to showcase the county’s heritage and diversity through recreation.

Spanning an impressive 275 acres, this park features at least 112 buildings and structures within the property.

Entertain yourself with music, rides, comfort food and shopping; there’s always something to do.

Aerial view of the Erie County Fair Fairgrounds

Martybiniasz, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Chill at any of the tap houses for some local alcohol or find inspiration in the art displayed in the Creative Arts building.

If you want a more exciting, stomach-curling experience, ride on the Fireball, Pop-A-Wheelie, and other rides.

The Erie County Fairgrounds also has four parks where you can breathe fresh air while playing with friends and your little ones.

Night scene at the Erie County Fair Fairgrounds

Shinerunner at English Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Taste Local Wine at Ten Thousand Vines Winery

You have never visited Hamburg if you’ve never gone to Ten Thousand Vines Winery.

This winery on South Buffalo Street specializes in small batches of local wine and juice varieties.

Its building is a repurposed jail and firehouse, adding a bit of uniqueness and exciting history to the everyday wine tasting experience.

Should you visit, enjoy its 5-wine flight wine tastings with a plate of snacks, like crackers and cheese.

There are also winemaking classes available for aspiring connoisseurs.

Ten Thousand Vines Winery is also a limited distributor to some stores all over Hamburg, but you can get its wine products directly from its tasting room.

Go with a group and ensure your wine-tasting journey is fun and educational.

Get a Train Ride at Buffalo Cattaraugus & Jamestown Scenic Railway

Buffalo Cattaraugus & Jamestown Scenic Railway gives you everything you may need for the ultimate Hamburg historical tour.

This railway offers a passenger train run by diesel and steam engines, reminiscent of early train power.

Working on the line of Buffalo Southern Railroad, this train accommodates passenger scenic trips to the best places in Hamburg.

Its history goes back to 1897, during the company’s first incorporation and connection with nearby railroads.

Despite setbacks, it has only flourished throughout the years, becoming the company it is today.

You can also request a memorable excursion or a train charter for special events.

Train rides also come in a collection of themes, including murder mysteries and even a train robbery.

Take a tour with the Buffalo Cattaraugus & Jamestown Scenic Railway!

Cheer for a Contender at Buffalo Raceway

Buffalo Raceway is a spot you shouldn’t miss in Hamburg.

Established in 1942, this horse racing track runs half a mile and provides convenient access to other forms of entertainment at the Fairgrounds.

With off-track betting starting in the ’70s, Buffalo Raceway eventually found its groove in wagering and simulcast racing.

Now, the track has barns and other amenities to make the races safer for the riders and the audience.

You’ll find pari-mutuel harness racing an exciting sport to watch.

Cheer with other audience members for your chosen contender!

Visit the Buffalo Raceway on McKinley Parkway at the Fairgrounds.

Enjoy Live Music with a Beer at Hamburg Brewing Company

Got time to taste local beer and beverages in Hamburg?

Hamburg Brewing Company opened in 2013, becoming one of the village’s most prominent brewing and production facilities.

Housing a taproom and a patio, this tourist spot lets you enjoy session ales, milk stouts, and other ciders within a comfortable atmosphere.

Feel even more relaxed with the presence of live music to accompany you during your drinking session.

Get some merchandise while you’re there, too!

Choose from a variety of beer and wine, including Vigneti and Erath.

Hamburg Brewing Company is on Boston State Road.

Indulge in Ice Cream and Goodies at Nick Charlap’s Ice Cream

After a jam-packed excursion at historical sites and recreational areas, settle down with a cold treat.

Nick Charlap’s Ice Cream specializes in homemade ice cream in 40+ flavors.

For over 50 years, this ice cream shop has served the public across five locations all over West New York.

From ice cream in a cup to sundaes, find your sweet match while staving off the Hamburg heat.

No matter your ice cream preference, you can be sure that Nick Charlap’s Ice Cream has your needs in mind.

You can find this shop on Euclid Avenue across from the famous Subway restaurant.

See a Classic Film at the Hamburg Palace Theatre

Are you a fan of classic movies?

Hamburg has just the right spot for you to dig into your hobby and make the most out of your trip.

Hamburg Palace Theatre opened in 1926.

It’s a quaint theater that screens feature films from decades ago.

If you want to watch more modern films, the theater also screens the latest blockbusters.

Besides, the Hamburg Palace Theatre is also a party rental space on Buffalo Street.

Have a grand time with your guests with the movies you have chosen.

Grab a Bottle of Cider at Alchemy Wine & Beer

Alchemy Wine & Beer is a craft restaurant that brings beer, food, and wine together.

This isn’t your typical restaurant.

Beyond a dining establishment, it’s also a celebratory facility for all things art.

From mastering meat curation to knowing the varieties of wine at Alchemy Wine & Beer, you’ll surely appreciate the learning experience while drinking and dining.

There’s an outdoor seating area for you to acquaint yourself with the Hamburg atmosphere.

Explore the art masterpieces onsite, including the vases and paintings.

If you’ve got the time, sign up for a class too!

Go with a group and have new bonding moments together.

Make sure to call beforehand, especially if your group exceeds ten people.

Enjoy a fancy dining experience like you’ve never seen before on Union Street.

Take a Swing at Cloverbank Country Club

Foster your love for golf at Cloverbank Country Club.

The club lets you improve your swing and aim on its 160-acre property.

Established as the Bethlehem Management Club in 1958, this golf course has completely evolved to fit today’s generation of golfers.

Now, its amenities go way beyond the usual golf lawn and slopes.

Boasting a 7,000-plus-yard golf championship layout, it’s the ideal place for every golfer of every skill level.

There’s also a grille and patio where you can warm yourself beside the fire pit while you munch on a snack.

Are you a novice?

You can use the full-length driving range.

If you’re traveling with family members, they can also learn something about swimming instead.

Everything you do at Cloverbank Country Club is a sure win for you and your family.

Explore the Member Exhibits at the Centennial Art Center of Hamburg, Inc.

Got a knack for the arts?

The Centennial Art Center of Hamburg, Inc. is a relaxing place for you to study your craft and explore other forms of art.

This organization hosts several classes for arts, including beginner classes for children and inspirational talks for teens and adults.

Member exhibits are also open for viewing, so you can stop by and see what the center has put up.

From time to time, seasoned artists, publishers, and artisans offer their take on their practiced art.

Besides learning through the artworks, you will also hear from the creators themselves.

Enroll in a workshop and meet other fellow artists who may have the same passion as you.

The Centennial Art Center of Hamburg, Inc. is a sizeable farm-like facility on Amsdell Road.

Buy a Chocolate Assortment at Fowler’s Chocolates

It may not be Valentine’s or Christmas, but Hamburg never runs out of chocolates to spread joy and love.

Founded in 1910, Fowler’s Chocolates remains an authentic Sponge Candy store throughout Buffalo and New York.

Its wide variety of chocolate confections comes from natural cacao.

All its products comprise 60% cacao solids, a more significant percentage than the average chocolates made in various factories.

Send a Corporate Gift to your business partners with the bestselling gift baskets from Fowler’s Chocolates.

Otherwise, treat yourself with a sponge candy assortment after a long work day.

This chocolate shop also has other locations in East Aurora, Cheektowaga, and more.

Its Hamburg store is on Lake Street.

Purchase a Unique Gift at Lodgical Country Store

Don’t end your Hamburg excursion without a souvenir of your fantastic trip.

Lodgical Country Store can offer you the best unique gifts that’ll make you remember the beauty and charm of the village even years later.

Get premium soaps, lotions, and other body essentials you won’t find elsewhere.

The store also has snacks, tea, and coffee, so you can let your loved ones at home sample Hamburg.

Your furry loved one will also thank you by grabbing treats.

Big or small, there’s so much you can choose from at Lodgical Country Store on Buffalo Street.

Play a Round of Bowling at Braymiller’s Lanes

Founded in 1942, Braymiller’s Lanes is a must-go Hamburg spot for a fun time indoors with the family.

This bowling alley gets you pumped to knock pins down on Buffalo Street.

Notably, there’s a bar where you can enjoy a cocktail while waiting between turns.

If you’ve got the heart for competition, join leagues and compete with other bowlers.

If not, you may still enjoy open bowling.

Do you want to spend your upcoming birthday in Hamburg?

Braymiller’s Lanes can offer you an excellent venue for your loved ones and guests and maximum fun.

Relax with a HydraFacial at Corto’s Salon and Spa

Corto’s Salon and Spa ensure your relaxation and rejuvenation.

This salon and spa on Buffalo Street offer a variety of hair, skin, and body-centered services.

Transform into the new you when you step out into the streets of Hamburg with a new hair color and cut.

Perhaps the most sought-after service at Corto’s Salon and Spa is the HydraFacial.

Allow your skin to experience deep cleansing to avoid breakouts and skin-related deterioration.

There’s no downtime, too!

This means you can go about your day and check off every spot in your itinerary without worrying about your skin after the treatment.

Treat yourself to a life-changing treatment at Corto’s Salon and Spa!

Brush up on Your Bird Knowledge at Anna Mae Bacon Bird Sanctuary

The Anna Mae Bacon Bird Sanctuary is a 6.45-acre nature tract forming the bend around Eighteenmile Creek.

The sanctuary’s name comes from a botanist who once owned the property with her husband.

Anna Mae Bacon, labeled the “Bird Lady of Hamburg,” protected birds through the sanctuary during her lifetime.

Today, the place provides refuge for various bird species through a vast tree collection, including maples, sycamores, and white pines.

Some sighted fowl are cardinals, sparrows, wild turkeys, and much more!

Anna Mae Bacon Bird Sanctuary is an excellent spot for birdwatching.

Final Thoughts

Hamburg remains a historical wonder within the Erie County, New York area.

Likewise, its wide variety of recreational spots keeps it a destination tourists go back to over and over again.

Plan your trip today and discover the best things to do in Hamburg, New York!

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